On this MRI, please notice that abnormal discs appear darker or less hydrated than normal discs. Intervertebral discs have poor blood flow and thus they do not heal well post an injury. This is similar to cartilage of knees which once injured usually never regains its original condition. It is important to realize that studies have shown that 50% of people without any pain will have an abnormal MRI. Thus, abnormalities on your MRI may not directly relate to pain and this is why the MRI or other scans are only tools. On the opposite side, there are people with fairly normal appearing MRI's that actually have pain. Thus take the MRI findings with a "grain of salt" until your surgeon actually evaluates your condition.